In the annals of great Southern experiments, there are many failures. Add to that list the recent attempt of the Franklin family to get a new pet, a.k.a The Great Dog Experiment of 2011, a.k.a The Christmas of Disappointment.

What is arguably the most American of all dog breeds is not recognized as a show-worthy breed by the American Kennel Club. Perhaps it’s the fact that the most American of all dog breeds is also undeniably Southern.

The middle class, perhaps reflecting their own jambalaya of a heritage, embrace the mutts. In fact, anyone who brags about being 1/96 Cherokee but refuses to own a mixed-breed dog is not to be trusted.